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    1. Management

    SEPTA Board approves FY22 operating, capital budgets

    June 29, 2021
    The approval advances the plans to fund everyday operations and major improvement projects.
    Related To: Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA)

    The Fiscal Year 2022 Operating and Capital Budget proposals were approved by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) Board of Directors. 

    The approval advances the plans to fund everyday operations and major improvement projects. SEPTA's fiscal year covers the 12-month period from July 1 through June 30. 

    "We are at a critical moment," said SEPTA Board Chairman Pasquale T. Deon Sr. "We are fortunate to be represented by elected officials who understand that transportation is an investment, not a cost. The decisions that are being made now will have a profound impact on the future of SEPTA." 

    The $1.52 billion operating budget will provide funding for SEPTA to increase service levels in support of the region's recovery from COVID-19, with no fare increases for customers. The operating budget funds the everyday expenses of running the system, such as labor, energy, fuel, cleaning and security. The budget also reflects several initiatives SEPTA has launched as part of its first-ever Efficiency and Accountability Program. 

    The FY22 capital budget and 12-Year Program lays out the authority's vision for continuing core infrastructure improvements and advancing projects of significance for the region. 

    This includes: 

    • More than $200 million for trolley modernization during the 12-year program, including $30 million in FY22. 
    • $25 million to support the Bus Revolution initiative, which will include a comprehensive redesign of the bus network. 
    • Advancing station improvements to bring full ADA accessibility to the Market-Frankford and Broad Street Lines by 2033. 
    • Replacing one of the oldest rail fleets in the nation, including trolley cars, the Market-Frankford Line fleet and Silverliner IV Regional Rail vehicles. 

    The capital budget plan also shows how uncertainty regarding state capital funding could impact SEPTA's immediate and long-range capital program. SEPTA officials have been working closely with members of the legislature in Harrisburg to highlight the importance of public transportation to the region and the commonwealth. 

    "SEPTA has kept our region moving through the pandemic, and we need a sustainable, bondable funding source in order to support the recovery," said SEPTA General Manager/CEO Leslie S. Richards. "We are working with leaders at all levels of government to ensure SEPTA can fulfill its core mission of moving people safely, affordably and equitably now and in the years to come."